It was only one game, but RadimVrbata took a big step in quieting his doubters Saturday night.

Vrbata broke out pretty much out of nowhere last season for 35 goals and 62 points, and there are many who thought it was a fluky year. Saturday, though, he got off to a great start with a goal and two assists. "My skating was getting better and creating some chances," Vrbata said. "We scored some goals, so I felt fine." Vrbata is the team's best scoring option, but it's still hard to anticipate as much success as he had last year.